Sounds from Iran
Danses Fantastiques
by Loris Tjeknovarian
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The aim of this project was to explore the foreign sounds of special regions of the world - something beyond the mainstream western or the Chinese piano literature. I finally decided on Armenia and Iran because they are right in between the continents of Europe, Africa and Asia. After reading the touching stories of the contemporary Armenian Iranian composer, Loris Tjeknavorian, I contacted him to ask for his kind permission to premiere his piano set Danses Fantastiques in Asia. He not only granted us permission, but also sent us the copies of different works of his. His generosity is greatly appreciated.
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Born in Iran to Armenian parents in times of turmoil, Tjeknavorian (b. 1937) has contributed greatly to the culture and music of both Iran and Armenia, particularly in raising funds across the country for the ruined city of Gyumri after the 1986 earthquake, establishing an Academy of Music and Arts and a symphony orchestra there, rebuilding the theatre and television; playing an important role in the campaign for Armenia’s independence in 1991, taking part in the committee for the restoration of the national coat of arms and the choice of an anthem, and ensuring that regular concerts were given during the war in Nagorno-Karabakh.
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Greetings from composer Loris Tjeknavorian
